Let's go to the zoo!

After months of being shut to visitors for months, two of Colorado’s beloved zoos are getting to reopen—the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Denver Zoo. Though things will not be exactly the same as before, it's a safe bet that we're all thrilled at this news.

Like other restaurants and businesses reopening around the state, there are major changes ahead—including reduced visitor capacity, facemask requirements, and limited services.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

In Colorado Springs, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is working on a phased reopening schedule. The Zoo opened to members only on Saturday, June 6, and will be open by reservation for members through June 10, advance tickets required. However, from June 11-19, the Zoo will allow both member and non-member visitors, with an advance ticket reservation system being used. All entries will be on a timed schedule.

Visitors were extremely excited to get back to the Zoo this weekend that all member tickets through June 19 have already sold out.

The Zoo’s variance that allows reopening is only approved at this time through June 19, so there will an announcement forthcoming when the Zoo knows what will happen after that. 

• Visitors to the Zoo will see all staff members wearing facemasks, guests are strongly encouraged to wear them as well. 
• There will hand washing and sanitization stations throughout the zoo. 
• Food-service will be limited, with no refills on soda at this time.  
• Some buildings will be closed or have limited access.
• Guests will be asked to follow social distancing guidelines provided by the Zoo.
• One-way traffic flow in certain areas. 

Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo website to see all the changes and get information on how to plan a visit. 

The Zoo has had many changes since closing in March, including welcoming home its Nile hippos.  

Denver Zoo

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is not the only one in the state to announce they are able to reopen, the Denver Zoo was able to share some good news this week as well. The Denver Zoo will open to members on Wednesday, June 10 (already sold out!), and then to the general public on Friday, June 12.

• There will be some changes everyone will need to be aware of and abide by to visit the Zoo. 
• All guests to the Zoo who are over age 3 will be required to wear facemasks (you will not be admitted without one). 
• Touchless tickets must be purchased in advance online.
• Timed and staggered entry, limited admissions, and sanitation and handwashing stations.
• Travel a one-way path around the zoo.
• Modified guest services, modified animal demonstrations.
• Paper maps replaced with a digital one. 

These are all part of the changes the Denver Zoo has put in place to stay in-line with state and local guidelines, and welcome people back to visit the over 3,000 animals that reside at the zoo. The Denver Zoo is also taking employee temperature checks prior to starting a shift and all employees have been trained in the new safety and sanitation procedures.

The animals will likely be incredibly happy to see people, as they have only seen their caregivers for several months.

Are you excited to get to go to one of Colorado's zoos again? What animals and new animal babies have you been anxious to see? Sound off in the comments.